Worcester City Council hopefuls spar in debate

Friday, October 20, 2017

Publication:

Telegram and Gazette

Besides Mr. Franco and Mr. Wally, the only other pairing of opponents Thursday night at Washburn Hall was District 3 incumbent George Russell and challenger Davis Asare. District 4 Councilor Sarai Rivera appears to be a lock for re-election after challenger Coreen Gaffney stated her intention to withdraw from the race this week. And organizers said District 1 hopeful Sean Rose had a prior commitment Thursday night. His opponent, Ed Moynihan, fielded questions from the panel.
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All the candidates were asked about how they would focus on race and diversity in the city. Mr. Moynihan said it’s important to listen, giving kudos to the Governor’s Black Advisory Commission, which recently stopped in Worcester to hear concerns from the city’s communities of color. He said he would work toward ensuring equal educational opportunities for all students in city schools, and continue efforts in the city to reach out to communities of color to bring people into the workforce.
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Reception among the candidates to negotiations to bring the Pawtucket Red Sox to Worcester was mixed. Mr. Moynihan, and others, said they were concerned what would become of the Worcester Bravehearts. Mr. Moynihan said he hasn’t been convinced that bringing the minor league Red Sox affiliate to the city would be the “best bang for the buck.”